Marchlyn Bach

The water here is so clear it barely looks real - Marchlyn Bach sits high in the Snowdonia hills above Bangor, a reservoir that feels properly remote despite being within reach of civilization. It's a straightforward walk from the nearest car park, nothing too strenuous, and you'll find yourself surrounded by serious mountain scenery: steep slopes rising on all sides, the water reflecting whatever light manages to break through the clouds.

This is walkers' territory, full stop. History buffs won't find much to chew on - it's a functional reservoir, built in the 1880s - but the landscape around it tells the story well enough. Families with older kids will manage the walk fine; younger ones might find it a bit long for what's essentially a good view and a paddle. On a clear day it's cracking. On a grey one, which is often, it feels properly wild.

There's no visitor center or facilities to speak of, so bring what you need. Allow a couple of hours for the walk and a proper look around. It's free to access, and honestly, that's the only price it deserves. The nearby caravan parks - Ogwen Bank is closest at just over two miles away - make it an easy add-on to a broader Snowdonia trip rather than a destination in itself. Pair it with longer hikes in the area rather than making it your main event.